Dolphins sign former UM offensive lineman Jason Fox

The Miami Dolphins continued their efforts to supplement the offensive line by signing former University of Miami standout Jason Fox to a one-year deal on Wednesday.

And in keeping with a trend, Fox seems to be a good fit for the Dolphins' zone blocking scheme.

"I think I'm an athletic, smart, tough guy and I think I can pick up the offense well," Fox said during a conference call Wednesday. "I think I'll be able to run the zone-read and the things that they ask me to do I've done them in the past and I think I'll be able to execute it here."

The Dolphins have also signed Branden Albert, the former Kansas City left tackle, and Shelley Smith, the former St. Louis guard, and both are adept in zone blocking. That wasn't the case for the Dolphins' offensive linemen last season.

According to a league source, the Dolphins put Fox through a physical Wednesday, seeing if the former Lions fourth-round pick is past the medical issues that plagued his four-year career in Detroit.

Fox, who played left tackle for the Hurricanes and started 48 collegiate games, started three of the eight games he played for the Lions last season. He battled injuries most of the year but played in Detroit's final game.

Fox won a highly competitive job battle with Corey Hilliard to start at right tackle. But then he suffered a groin injury just 15 snaps into the season opener. He fought back from his groin issues only to be played on injured reserve because of a knee injury.

He's been limited by knee and foot issues throughout his entire career in Detroit.

Fox, who turns 26 in May, visited the Chiefs earlier this week. He can immediately help the Dolphins because of his ability to play both tackle positions, and he's athletic enough to fit a zone blocking scheme.

He'd likely compete for the starting right tackle spot, and could serve as the backup for Albert at left tackle. His main competition at guard would be Dallas Thomas, Nate Garner and David Arkin, but his presence could allow all three to compete for the vacant starting spots at offensive guard.

“I came in here to compete," Fox said. "I think every athlete wants to be a starter. There are some openings on this offensive line and I came in here to give it everything I have and to earn a starting job. Whether it’s at right tackle or whether it’s inside somewhere or wherever, I’m here to help this team anyway I can.”

Fox seems thrilled to be back in South Florida.

"This is a great team on the rise and I think it's a great fit," Fox said. "I'm very comfortable with South Florida and I consider it a second home to me. I'm just so excited to be here. Their offensive line presents a great opportunity for me to come in and compete and I couldn't be more thrilled."

The Dolphins, which have a little more than $16 million in cap space left, wouldn't have to commit much more than a minimum salary to Fox.

The Dolphins now have 59 players under contract and need to get to 90 before training camp.